Reptile & Amphibian Forums

i just got a new leopard. she's in quarentine and eating great. she doesn't seem sick,but she is really skinny. she is 5 yr old. the guy i bought her from said"she's just one of those that won't gain weight". is that true or should i get her checked out?

Have you considered taking her in for a checkup? I'd recommend it, if she's eating well and still not gaining, she may have parasites. Best thing to do would be to take her (or at least a fresh fecal sample) to the vet for testing

I second the "take it to a vet" recommendation, fecals are very inexpensive and really worth it if you have any concerns.

I would also suggest adding waxworms as treats to its diet. Waxworms are almost entirely fat and good for putting on weight. Be forewarned though, that leos love them and if given too many will refuse all other food. But something like 3 worms x twice a week in addition to other prey items will help the little one.

Oh, and for the record, I've never met a leo who wouldn't put on weight, so I think that is just a line. The little one may just have something wrong with it, but a vet can say for sure. Good luck.
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0.1 Albino Leo Gecko
0.1 Crested Gecko
1.0 Dear Boyfriend
Departed: Harvey and Spock

I really don't recommend pushing waxies to gain weight... it's like trying to fatten up a little kid by feeding them fast food and twinkies. It'll pack on the pounds, but it's not healthy. Leos can develop fatty liver disease with diets like that.

If you REALLY want to feed waxies, do one every week or two, but do be careful, they have a 'laxative' effect on my leos, and they have very greasy poo's for a few days afterwards.

The best way to have a leo gain weight is to feed insects that have been fed high-quality gutload (whether bought or home-made).